Cancercare Rondebosch is hosting its annual Cancer Survivors’ Day on 09 September 2017 at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town. It is the 17th event since the first took place in 2000 and is set to be an inspirational and motivational experience for cancer survivors and their families.

“The goal is to give us the opportunity as a practice to acknowledge the people who are treated with us and to recognise the journey they have undertaken with cancer,” says Linda Greeff, Oncology Social Worker, Cancercare Rondebosch. “It is also a chance for us to raise awareness around the fact that this illness can be treated and that people can live long and productive lives with cancer.”

Care, courage and inspiration at the three words that define the event and those who attend it.

It is designed to break down the stigma of cancer as a life-threatening illness and showcase inspirational stories. For those who attend, Cancer Survivors’ Day is a celebration of life.

“Being around other cancer survivors inspires and motivates people,” says Linda. “The feedback we have received every year has been overwhelmingly positive. People feel that they are not alone in their experiences and they use this as a chance to learn from one another. It is also a special experience for our treatment teams as they get to connect with their patients and see how they are getting on with their lives.”

Cancer Survivors’ Day 2017 starts at 8.30am and includes a high tea, inspirational speakers and some insights into developments in oncology treatments from an oncologist’s point of view. A band will welcome people as they arrive, and two cancer survivors will sharing their stories at the event, one of them will also be entertaining us with some of his own music . For those who want to connect with other survivors, uncover more about how others cope with cancer and learn about new treatments and solutions, it is an experience not to be missed.

Linda concludes: “From the moment you receive your diagnosis, you are a survivor and this day is for you.”

Entry is completely free, but tickets are limited so anyone wishing to attend needs to contact Joleen Retief on Joleen.retief@cancercare.co.za to book their space. All those who attend the event will also be allowed free access to the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens for the day.